Camping options near Wetmore, Colorado range from rustic tent sites to full RV hookups within San Isabel National Forest. Situated at elevations between 6,200-8,000 feet, the area experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. The region receives higher rainfall in July and August with afternoon thunderstorms common, making weather-appropriate gear essential for campers.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Isabel: Located about 10 minutes from Aspen Acres, Lake Isabel offers fishing opportunities with rentals available. "We came to go mountain biking and fishing, did both," notes Patrick L. about Arkansas Point Campground, who recommends combining activities for a full day experience.
Explore Bishop Castle: This unique attraction sits just 5 minutes from several campgrounds. "We used this campground to explore the surrounding area and Bishop Castle. Staff was very friendly and they had a lot things to do for the kids in the camp store/facility," shares Quentin C. from Aspen Acres Campground.
Hiking accessible trails: Many campgrounds offer direct trail access. "Designated tent spots. Some spaces have a shelter with table. Outhouses are clean. Fire pits are built and work great. Trail right off campgrounds is an easy, beautiful hike," writes Becki S. about Davenport Campground.
Stargazing: The area offers excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "At night the site was amazingly dark. This was my first real time seeing the Milky Way. It was so amazing I am glad my friend was there so I have backup to my story. During the Perseids, so shooting stars were out," describes Marissa W. about her experience at Davenport Campground.
What campers like
Privacy and spacing: "Sites are a little close together, but we had no problem with our neighbors. There is only one hand pump near sites 6/7 that takes forever to get water from, but does work," explains Serena L. about her stay at Davenport Campground.
Varied site options: The area offers everything from basic tent sites to premium glamping near Wetmore, Colorado. "There are sites for every type of camper: tent, trailer, RV, glamping and cabins. This is a somewhat small but well maintained private campground with lots of simple amenities," notes Michelle G. about Aspen Acres Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms. "Bathrooms were very clean. Nice trails nearby. There's some history behind it and I can definitely feel and appreciate that it was built with outdoor recreation in mind," writes Noah E. about his stay at St Charles Campground.
Fall colors: "Small park, plenty of room to relax. Trash receptacles close. Creek on the south side of park. Many pit toilet. Camp host during operation. Both times we stayed here the host was very helpful and friendly," mentions Chad H., who specifically highlights "Fall Aspen leaves" at St Charles Campground.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire bans are common in summer months. "Although we had a fire ban in effect, we were able to rent a propane fire pit from the office. Be super cautious and check fire restrictions for Custer County," advises Michelle G. about staying at Aspen Acres Campground.
Water access challenges: Some campgrounds have limited water availability. "The only kicker is you are not allowed to park where the ramp is to walk your kayaks down to the lake unless you rent them from them. So you have to use the many flights of stairs that wind back n forth all the way down to the lake," warns Jim W. about La Vista Campground.
Elevation considerations: The higher elevation means temperature fluctuations. "Temperatures got upward of 99+ when we were here, so if you're tent camping in late July, be prepared!" advises Ryan J. about his stay at Northern Plains Campground.
Limited connectivity: "Very nice, comfortable night just after an early September snow. Friendly staff including an escort to your site. Wished for a paved site but the gravel was level and site was well kept," shares Ann F. about camping in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific family activities. "The staff has a lot things to do for the kids in the camp store/facility," mentions Quentin C. about his family experience at Aspen Acres Campground.
Select sites near bathrooms: "We were in site 13 which is a great site that backs up to the forest. The downfall of this site is it is next to the vault toilet and it was very smelly," warns Amanda W. from her experience at St Charles Campground.
Consider accessibility: "About a five minute walk to the lake, great little Cliff side fishing spots. Bathroom a 2 minute walk, free showers, and clean. Spot had plenty of room to also park a RAM 2500," notes Ryan J. about Northern Plains Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: "We were visited by several mule deer and very friendly chipmunks. Bears are in the area, but a bear-proof locker is on the site," shares Kathrina M. about her experience camping with family at St Charles Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: "The site 6E has a sewer hookup that is fairly far from the electric and we needed our 20 foot sewer hose to reach it. It's on a slight uphill slant so some creative engineering was required to dump," advises Jackie R. about setting up at Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA.
Weather preparedness: "We have a 26' trailer and stayed in site 18. It was near the end of the row and relatively quiet. We only wish we had a longer power cable. (Our next purchase!) Our port is at the back and the outlet was way up front," shares Michelle G. about her RV experience at Aspen Acres Campground.
Access considerations: "40'+ 5th wheels, READ: 12' clearance coming into the park WILL HIT YOUR AIR CONDITIONERS. Use the main road and block traffic, don't go under the covering thing," warns Damon R. about accessing Northern Plains Campground with larger rigs.
Water quality issues: "All fine for a night except we filled our tank with the most disgusting undrinkable water imaginable. I'd not come back for that reason," cautions Richard R. about water quality at Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA.
